General News
25 February, 2023
Project to add 650 new jobs
One of the largest and most lucrative mineral sands projects in the region could add up to 650 jobs and millions of dollars annually over a 30-year lifespan. Development of the Avonbank Project will mean Horsham can boast four of the world's largest...
One of the largest and most lucrative mineral sands projects in the region could add up to 650 jobs and millions of dollars annually over a 30-year lifespan.
Development of the Avonbank Project will mean Horsham can boast four of the world's largest sand-mining projects within a 70km radius of the city.
WIM Resource project leaders have marked 2024 for mining operations to start, subject to approvals and funding.
The future of the zircon and rare-earth mine, on land north of Dooen and 15 kilometres northeast of Horsham, is now with the state government.
The mining developer has submitted its Environmental Effects Statement to the government and is now seeking permission to start mining operations in 2024.
WIM Resource anticipates the Avonbank mine will add millions of dollars annually to the district's economy while adding hundreds of direct and indirect jobs.
While the EES awaits approval, the company is informing the public about its plans, and inviting feedback.
Stakeholder liaison officer Murray Wilson hosted community information sessions at Murtoa and Jung on Tuesday. Yesterday he was in Horsham Plaza and today will be at Dooen Hall.
Earlier, WIM Resources outlined plans to Mallee farmers at Speed Field Days and next month will have a presence at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days at Longerenong.
Minerals experts say Australia has an enormous opportunity to supply a growing market with its high-grade mineral sands resources.
The country has the world’s largest mineral sands deposits and is home to a number of active mineral sands companies, offering new opportunities for economic growth and jobs in regional Australia.
Australia has an abundance of titanium mineral sands with 32 per cent of the world’s share of ilmenite resources, 62 per cent of rutile resources and 68 per cent of global zircon resources and is in an ideal position to establish additional off-shore markets.
Rutile and ilmenite are used in the production of paint, titanium metal and medical implants. Zircon is used in ceramics, digital printing, dentistry and electrical components.
Smaller quantities of rare earth elements are also produced through mineral sands and used in wind turbine magnets and in medical, manufactured and electronic products such as fibre optics, rechargeable batteries and hybrid cars.
The EES statement undertaken by WIM Resource includes details of the proposed development, an outline of public and stakeholder consultation and issues raised, possible environmental effects, and a program to monitor and manage environmental effects during project implementation.
Mr Wilson said it was important to inform the public that comprehensive work had been carried out for the EES and studies demonstrated no significant negative environmental or socio-economic impacts that could result from the proposed Avonbank mining operation.
"Rather, the studies have shown there will be a substantial positive boost in Horsham Rural City and Wimmera Southern Mallee economies and significant positive employment opportunities," he said.
Horsham Rural City Council has adopted a Memorandum of Understanding with WIM Resource Pty Ltd that formally maps mutual benefit for stakeholders and the region.
Chief Executive Officer Sunil Bhalla said while the state government was responsible for approving the mine, the MoU would ensure a collaborative relationship between the mining sector and the council for the benefit of the community.